Can LIVI prescribe medication for cold sores?

Cold sores on the lips and around the mouth are very common and are caused by a type of herpes virus. Cold Sores typically settle within 7-10 days, usually requiring no treatment. Many people will continue to carry this virus in their body for the rest of their life. The virus will usually be silent, but occasionally it becomes active and causes a recurrent outbreak of cold sores.

LIVI can provide advice which includes reassurance and treatment advice. There are various over-the-counter medications, which the GP can advise you on.

There are also prescription antiviral creams that you can use on the lesions. If you have severe outbreaks, or are susceptible to infection, your GP may prescribe you an antiviral tablet.